A Simple Trick to Nail Your Newsletter’s Focus (Without Overthinking It)
Starting a newsletter can feel like staring at a blank page. It's exciting, but also a little intimidating. If you're anything like me, you've probably wondered, "How do I actually figure out who I'm writing for, and what I should say?"
Here's a quick exercise that helped me (and might help you, too):
My "Three-Question" Shortcut
Grab a sticky note (or the back of a receipt, no judgment) and jot down answers to these three questions:
- Who do I want to help or connect with most right now?
(Think: busy marketing managers, creative entrepreneurs, etc.) - What's a topic I could talk about for hours, even if nobody paid me?
(Your weird obsession with productivity hacks? The art of pitching? The freelance life in all its messy glory?) - What's one thing I wish someone had told me when I started?
(This is gold. Your future readers want that wisdom.)
Look at your answers. That intersection? There's your sweet spot.
Want more newsletter inspiration? Check out this week's must read.
Must Read
How to Choose the Audience and Theme for Your Newsletter
Ready to launch a newsletter that readers actually look forward to? This article breaks down exactly how to choose the right audience and theme for your freelance writing newsletter, without the overwhelm. You’ll learn why starting with your “why” is crucial, how to pinpoint your ideal reader, and the secret to picking a topic that keeps both you and your subscribers excited. If you want your emails to be more than just background noise, don’t miss these actionable insights!
7 Reasons Why You Should Start Your Own Newsletter
Curious about whether starting your own newsletter is worth it? This article lays out seven compelling reasons every freelance writer should consider launching one, even if you’re starting from scratch. Discover how a newsletter can motivate you to write regularly, help you find your unique voice, and build real connections with your audience. You’ll also learn why owning your email list is a powerful asset and how newsletters can open up multiple ways to earn money (even if you never charge subscribers). If you want practical inspiration and a realistic look at what’s possible, this is a must-read for any writer ready to grow their craft and their business.
Complete Guide to Starting a Newsletter (Beginner's Masterclass)
Okay, this isn't exactly a read, but it's a great resource! If you’re thinking about launching a newsletter but aren’t sure where to start, this video masterclass is for you. Nicolas Cole shares his top strategies for building, marketing, and monetizing a newsletter, drawing from his experience scaling several newsletters to six figures. The video is packed with actionable advice, including how to choose between a free or paid model, creative ways to grow your subscriber list, and a clear six-step process to get your newsletter off the ground. And did I mention it's free? This one's from YouTube.
What We're Loving
Caffeine ✔️, Cold ✔️, Delicious ✔️
I don't know about you, but when it warms up I head for the cold drinks. As I'm also on a budget, I make a lot of my own ($6 for an iced tea?!). I got a cold brew pitcher (affiliate link) last year that makes great iced coffee or tea, and its cute too! It's pretty much a giant mason jar with a really sturdy handle and lid, but I'm in love with this thing.
A Good Book
What goes better with a cold beverage and a warm spring day than reading a book on the porch? Nothing! Here are three books I've read in the last couple of months that I whole-heartedly recommend: Dare to Lead by Brene Brown, Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry, and Shatterproof by Tasha Eurich (the current Boss Responses Book Club read). (affiliate links)
Upcoming Events
Magnetic Marketing Workshop
Marketing at the right time to the right people is important when you're running your own business. If you’re trying to market yourself without turning into someone you’re not, this free, live workshop will show you a better way. One rooted in connection, clarity, and what makes you magnetic to the right clients.
- How to create messaging that makes your ideal client say “I need you”
- The best ways to market yourself (even if you hate marketing)
- Why marketing works better when you lead with values, not gimmicks
- The difference relational marketing can have on your business growth
May 15, 2025 at 12 pm ET
Resilient Freelancer Conference
Want to hear from 10 freelancing experts about how to build a resilient freelance writing business? Then join me for the Resilient Freelancer Conference, hosted by @the Inkwell. The conference will take place May 28 and 29 and you get to hear from 10 amazing speakers for only $99.
Your ticket gets you access to:
- All 10 presentations and event recordings
- Q&A opportunity with every live presenter
- Every speaker and sponsor’s virtual booth
- 1 FREE month in the Inkwell community
- Everything within the virtual conference platform… for a full 48 hours
This one is limited to the first 500 people, so...
Wrap Up
I have a tiny challenge for you.
This week, try sending a "mini-newsletter" to just one person you trust (a friend, a fellow writer, your mom). Share a quick tip or story based on your three answers above. Ask them: "Would you want more of this?"
You don't need a fancy template or a huge list to start. You just need a point of view and a willingness to experiment.
Please note that as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. That means that if you click on one of our affiliate links (these are clearly identified) then we will receive a small commission, for which we thank you. It helps us keep on providing informative posts that help you build your freelance writing career and business.
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